Fusion 360 has received a major upgrade for people who design their own models to 3D print – a new slicer.

Previously, to 3D print one of your designs, you had to export it as an STL mesh file in Fusion 360, put it into separate slicing software, and then export the G-code to your 3D printer.

Now, you’re able to design a part in Fusion 360, and then slice your designs directly in the program – something that is particularly handy if you work with a machine that does both additive and subtractive manufacturing – without having to leave the program. The Fusion 360 slicer also has a couple of neat features. For example, it can simulate the printing process, and will automatically orient your parts for you.

Generally, though, the features are what you’d expect from an everyday slicer. You change your setup to additive, pick the machine you’re using, and then configure everything for printing, much like in Cura.

Source/lead image source: Fusion 360